Introduction
Orange bread brings a bright and comforting aroma into the kitchen that instantly feels inviting and homely. The natural sweetness of fresh oranges blends beautifully with soft bread crumb, creating a loaf that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Each slice carries a gentle citrus note that makes it perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a light dessert.
The beauty of an orange bread recipe lies in its balance. The flavor is rich without being heavy, sweet without feeling overwhelming, and soft while still holding structure. Fresh orange juice and zest work together to create depth, while simple pantry ingredients keep the recipe approachable for home bakers of all skill levels.
Many people enjoy orange bread because it feels special yet easy to prepare. It suits everyday baking but also feels elegant enough to serve guests. With careful mixing and proper baking, this recipe delivers consistent results that make it a reliable favorite for families and baking enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients Needed
Below is the complete ingredients list written in a proper column format with approximate calorie values. Calorie counts may vary slightly depending on ingredient quality and portion size.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 3 cups | 1365 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | 774 |
| Unsalted butter softened | ½ cup | 814 |
| Eggs | 3 large | 216 |
| Fresh orange juice | ¾ cup | 84 |
| Orange zest | 2 tablespoons | 12 |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | 10 |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Milk | ½ cup | 61 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and grease a standard loaf pan with butter. Lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, add softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and pale in color.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step helps create a smooth and airy batter.
- Pour in fresh orange juice and add orange zest. Mix gently until fully combined and fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, combine all purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir lightly to distribute evenly.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix slowly to avoid overworking the batter.
- Pour in milk and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter becomes smooth and thick with no visible lumps.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the top evenly using a spatula.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for fifty to fifty five minutes.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to rest in the pan for ten minutes.
- Carefully transfer the bread onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
• Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.
• Mix in chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter dessert style orange bread.
• Replace half of the sugar with honey for a deeper and more natural sweetness.
• Add a light orange glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice for extra moisture.
• Use whole wheat flour for half of the flour amount to add fiber and nuttiness.
• Sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking to create a lightly crisp crust.
Nutritional Information
Orange bread provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and natural citrus nutrients. Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per slice based on ten servings.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 42 grams |
| Fat | 15 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugar | 22 grams |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
The presence of fresh orange juice and zest adds vitamin C while butter and eggs contribute richness and energy. When enjoyed in moderation, this bread fits well into a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
Orange bread tastes best when sliced thick and served slightly warm. It pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or warm milk during breakfast or afternoon breaks. A thin spread of butter or cream cheese enhances its citrus notes without overpowering the flavor.
For a more elegant presentation, serve orange bread with fresh fruit on the side or drizzle a light orange glaze over the slices. It also works well as a dessert when paired with whipped cream or vanilla yogurt. Leftover slices can be lightly toasted for a crisp edge and soft center.
Conclusion
Orange bread offers a delightful blend of freshness, sweetness, and comfort that feels homemade in every bite. The gentle citrus aroma and soft crumb create a baking experience that feels rewarding from start to finish. Each slice reflects careful preparation and simple ingredients working together.
Baking this orange bread recipe at home allows full control over flavor and texture. Once mastered, it becomes a dependable recipe that suits both casual mornings and special gatherings. With its bright taste and inviting softness, orange bread easily earns a place in any kitchen collection.
